coordinated operation by the Worcester Crime Prevention Unit of the South African Police Service (SAPS) on Friday led to the significant seizure of illegally poached marine life and the arrest of one suspect.
Acting on a tip-off regarding a vehicle transporting illicit abalone, members of the unit located and intercepted a maroon Volkswagen Beetle on Aan De Doorns Extension Road in Johnson’s Park on the afternoon of September 12, 2025.
A subsequent search of the vehicle uncovered a substantial haul of protected marine species. The confiscated items included 287 units of abalone, ten galjoen fish, and 180 units of alikreukel (also known as ale kurk or perlemoen snails).
An adult male, found in possession of the contraband, was immediately placed under arrest on charges related to the illegal possession of abalone. The suspect is scheduled to make his first appearance before the Worcester Magistrates’ Court on Monday, September 15, 2025, to face formal charges.
